Coast Guard offers license training at Melbourne Boat Show

by BIA VIC on 16 Jun 2009 The Australian Volunteer Coast Guard Association will again be training and testing would-be boaties at the 49th Annual BIA Melbourne Boat Show.

Three of the Coast Guard’s top trainers will deliver a total of 10 sessions from Thursday 2 July to Monday 6 July at the Show at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre.

Geelong Flotilla Commander Peter Barrow, Deputy Squadron Commodore Barry Cordwell and Safety Beach Flotilla Commander Cliff Lees will run sessions at 10.30 am and 3 pm daily.

Each session comprises three hours of presentations and discussion followed by the test and marking.

Successful participants will receive a DVD of the handbook and a certificate of completion which they can present at any Vic Roads to buy their Recreational Boat Operator License.

The cost for the training and test is $70 for the boat operator session and test, or $90 for the boat operator plus PWC endorsement, and all proceeds go to the Coast Guard to do its vital voluntary work in helping keep the waterways safe.

People wishing to participate in the session will need to provide proof of identity. A current Victorian driver’s license is enough but if you don’t have that you will need photo ID such as a passport or student card, proof of residence such as a bank statement or letter from your school, Medicare card or proof of age card.

For show patrons interested in taking the course, visit the Organiser’s Office at the Show to be directed to the training room.

Melbourne Boat Show runs from Thursday 2 July to Monday 6 July at the Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Opening hours are 10am to 9pm daily except Sunday, when the show closes at 7pm, and Monday when it closes at 8pm.

More at www.melbourneboatshow.com.au